Gujarat's political landscape has been redefined with a significant cabinet reshuffle led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday, October 17, 2025. The revamp introduces fresh faces and strategic realignments, signaling the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) preparations for the 2027 Assembly elections.
A key highlight of the reshuffle is the appointment of Harsh Sanghavi, a three-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Majura, as the Deputy Chief Minister. This move revives the Deputy CM post after nearly four years and solidifies Sanghavi's position as a vital figure in the Bhupendra Patel government. Sanghavi's political journey began at a young age, and he is known for his close ties to the BJP's central leadership. He previously served as Minister of State for Home. Sanghavi has been entrusted with significant responsibilities including Home, Police Housing, Jail, Border Security, Transport, and Sports and Youth Services.
The cabinet expansion brings the total strength to 26 ministers, including the Chief Minister. Nineteen new MLAs were inducted as ministers. The oath-taking ceremony, presided over by Governor Acharya Devvrat, was held at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Each incoming leader held the Bhagavad Gita, symbolizing ideological commitment.
The reshuffle reflects a blend of caste arithmetic, political strength, and strategic messaging. The new cabinet demonstrates social balance, incorporating seven Patidars, eight Other Backward Classes (OBCs), three Scheduled Castes, four Scheduled Tribes, and three women.
Along with Harsh Sanghavi, Rivaba Jadeja, wife of Indian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja, was also inducted as a minister. Rivaba Jadeja gets the portfolio of Primary, Secondary and Adult Education.
Several experienced ministers have retained their positions. Kanubhai Mohanlal Desai will continue to handle Finance, Urban Development, and Urban Housing. Rushikesh Ganeshbhai Patel's portfolio now includes Energy and Petrochemicals along with Parliamentary Affairs.
Of the 26 ministers, only six from the previous team have been retained, with 10 dropped. Kunwarji Bavaliya and Parshottam Solanki are among those who retain their positions. This significant restructuring suggests a strategic refresh and a new power dynamic within the state government.
Other new entrants to the cabinet include Naresh Patel, Darshna Vaghela, Pradyuman Vaja, Kantilal Amrutiya, and Manisha Vakil. Arjun Modhwadia, who joined the BJP from Congress last year, has also been inducted.
The Gujarat government's cabinet reshuffle introduces a mix of fresh leadership and experienced administrators, setting the stage for the upcoming 2027 Assembly elections. The changes reflect a strategic move by the BJP to refresh its leadership and strengthen its governance.
